A terrible tragedy unfolded in Ahmedabad this afternoon as Air India flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner fell in the Meghani area, close to the airport, causing a massive explosion and fire.
What Happened?
The aircraft took off around midday and crashed just minutes later into a residential zone near a doctors’ hostel. According to early reports, the plane had 242 people onboard — 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew. Emergency teams rushed to the site, and a thick black cloud of smoke could be seen rising from the crash location.
The flight was heavily fueled for the long journey to the UK, which made the post-crash fire much more intense and difficult to control.
Emergency Response
Police, firefighters, ambulances, and disaster response teams reached the site within minutes. Over 90 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel were deployed immediately, with more teams on the way from Vadodara.
A senior police officer said, “Around 70–80% of the crash area has been cleared. Rescue operations are in full swing, and all agencies are working together.”
Government & Leaders React
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Union Ministers Amit Shah and Ram Mohan Naidu and instructed them to visit Ahmedabad to supervise the rescue and relief work. He also directed that all assistance be provided to those affected.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel shared his grief on social media and said that a green corridor had been set up for fast medical transfers. “We are treating this as a war-level rescue operation,” he said.
Who Was Onboard?
According to official sources:
- 169 were Indian nationals
- 53 were British nationals
- 7 Portuguese
- 1 Canadian
Air India confirmed that Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar were piloting the aircraft. The cause of the crash is not yet known, but experts say the heavy fuel load may have worsened the situation.
Airport Closed for Now
All operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport have been temporarily suspended. Passengers are advised to avoid the airport and check updates with their airlines.
Air India Statement
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran said,“We are heartbroken. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected. We are working closely with rescue teams and offering every possible support. A family helpline and emergency centre have been activated.”
Condolences from Adani Group
Gautam Adani posted on X,“We are shocked and deeply saddened. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered unimaginable loss. We are extending full support on the ground.”
FAQs
1. Is anyone alive from the crash?
As of now, authorities have not confirmed the number of survivors. Rescue operations are ongoing, and injured passengers are being rushed to hospitals. Official casualty figures are awaited.
2. How can families get information about passengers?
Air India has set up an emergency helpline and support centre for families of passengers. The airline and local authorities are working together to provide verified updates as quickly as possible.Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic event.
